CDE84650/1-2 Brahms The Piano Quartets

Historic New Recordings of Brahms’ Piano Quartets The culmination of many performances, and years of research into historically informed performance practice and period instruments, the Primrose Piano Quartet are delighted with this 2 CD set of Brahms’ magnificent works for the ensemble. Recorded on location in Vienna – using a different nineteenth century piano for each quartet, and gut strings similar to those in use at the time – the ensemble felt inspired to let their hair down and give performances which are creative, imaginative and new.

The CD was launched at Steinway Hall in London in February 2019 and has received the highest praise in a five star review in Musical Opinion Quarterly (July – september 2019):“This new set is much more than passing interest and in many ways goes to the top of the recommended list… It is a life-enhancing pleasure to renew acquaintance with these imperishable masterpieces in this way, and one must give this issue the highest recommendation.” Robert Matthew-Walker

It was highlighted on BBC Radio 3’s Record Review (March 2019) and described by Andrew McGregor: “This weeks best new best releases… Brahms’ three piano quartets with a difference. …. three excellent performances of the Brahms’ quartets. I’ve enjoyed them a great deal..”

And a 5 star notice in Classical Source, where Tully Potter writes: “performances unlike any others of Brahms’s Piano Quartets that have come my way… They feature piano-playing of the highest class, on interesting instruments, and string-playing that does justice to the music. They will happily sit on your shelves as alternatives to your favourite high-powered, modern-instrument versions.”

See full reviews here